Office of Communicable Diseases

Shigellosis

Shigellosis is an infectious disease caused by a group of bacteria called Shigella. Most who are infected with Shigella develop diarrhea, fever, and stomach cramps starting a day or two after they are exposed to the bacterium. The diarrhea is often bloody. Shigellosis usually resolves in 5 to 7 days. In some persons, especially young children and the elderly, the diarrhea can be so severe that the patient needs to be hospitalized. A severe infection with high fever may also be associated with seizures in children less than 2 years old. Some persons who are infected may have no symptoms at all, but may still pass the Shigella bacteria to others.

Information on the disease and its prevention  
(forwarded to CDC web site).

What are the Shigellosis rates in Rhode Island?

Who can I contact at the Department of Health about Shigellosis?

Call the Office of Communicable Diseases at 401-222-2577.